Hyperpigmentation

[RoRo]

Hey, it's my first post!

I've been lurking for a while, trying to figure out what best fits my head, but I've noticed a change lately. The last couple of times I've shaved had been a little rough, and I'm starting to notice black spots on the sides of my head, a difficulty area the last couple times I've been shaving. I'm a black guy and I guess my skin is more susceptible to hyperpigmentation, but is there anything I can do to stop it or lighten the spots? I'm not even really sure if it's true darkening of the skin, or just my skin healing. I've only been shaving for a couple months, and I don't do it that often.

[Alexander215]

Hey, it's my first post!

I've been lurking for a while, trying to figure out what best fits my head, but I've noticed a change lately. The last couple of times I've shaved had been a little rough, and I'm starting to notice black spots on the sides of my head, a difficulty area the last couple times I've been shaving. I'm a black guy and I guess my skin is more susceptible to hyperpigmentation, but is there anything I can do to stop it or lighten the spots? I'm not even really sure if it's true darkening of the skin, or just my skin healing. I've only been shaving for a couple months, and I don't do it that often.

I've noticed this on peoples necks on the bus, I haven't the faintest idea what it is. I would consult a dermatologist

[Cam]

I don't know much about darker skin tones, but are you sure it's not just razor burn? The sides of my head are among the most sensitive spots on my head and when I first started shaving it stayed burnt all the time.

[RoRo]

Hmm, it could be I guess.

My head is the only part of my I've ever shaven, lol. I only grow facial hair under my chin, so I'm not that experienced with razor burn.

[J Digory]

I have a few black friends who have really nice heads bald heads that I am jealous of. haha I have discussed it a little with one of them, and he let me know he used to have trouble with razor bumps really bad. I do, too, but only in certain areas. He says he started shaving every day to help combat his skin trouble. Also, he rinses his blade with witch hazel before shaving...it has alcohol in it...makes sure the blades are actually clean. He also only shaves WITH the grain with a high quality razor. I honestly never noticed any stubble...just a nice, smooth, even toned head.
Make sure you do a cold rinse or rub ice cubes or something similar when you are done shaving. It really helps with irritation.

I did a little search and found out that some people notice their skin getting darker when using a standard razor. It's recommended you use a quality electric razor instead. Also, I read that hydroquinone can be used to prohibit melanin, which is the pigment in skin, when it's not a chemical cause (as in the case of shaving).
It's probably best to see a dermatologist though, in all honesty.

[Tyler]

Hey Robert, have you posted up your shaving routine yet?  If not, let us know what it is so that we can make some suggestions to help you.